Drugs & Alcohol

What is drugs and alcohol support?

Drugs and alcohol are substances that can change the way we feel, think and act. Some people use them to cope with stress, difficult emotions, or challenging situations. Over time, repeated use can affect the brain and body, making it harder to stop which can lead to addiction. 
Addiction can develop gradually and can be difficult to manage without support. It can affect a person’s daily functioning and make it harder to stop using substances. However, with appropriate support, recovery is possible, and people can work towards rebuilding stability and health over time. 

How drugs & alcohol support works

Support is offered in a non-judgemental and person-centred way, working alongside each individual to help them understand their relationship with drugs or alcohol. It focuses on building healthier coping strategies, supporting change at the person’s own pace, and working towards recovery, stability, and improved wellbeing.

We work with people to reduce the harm substances can cause, regain control of their lives, and take steps towards long-term, sustainable well-being. We offer a range of services that can support individuals experiencing challenges with drugs and/or alcohol including comprehensive treatment services in the Swansea Bay University Health Board area and Residential Rehabilitation or Detoxification Facilities based in North Wales, but open to individuals from across the UK. We also offer services that support people in North Wales committed to recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, in addition to intervention and prevention support for children and young people at risk of drug and alcohol use.

Find out more about our Drugs and Alcohol services here. 

How to get support for drugs & alcohol

• Local drug and alcohol services (via NHS Wales) - free treatment, counselling, and recovery support (often self-referral). 
• DAN 24/7 (Wales Drug & Alcohol Helpline) - advice, support, and referral to local services (0808 808 2234). 
• GPs - can refer you to specialist treatment or prescribe support medication if needed. 
• Change Grow Live (CGL) - community recovery services in many areas of Wales. 
• The Forward Trust / other charities - structured recovery and rehab support. 
• AA / NA groups - peer support groups (Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous).